My mom always says that each generation is weaker but wiser. Lately I've been wondering what that really means. I'm starting to think it means more knowledgeable but much more stupid.
There is so much technology that teens can find out anything on the phone in the palm of their hands. Texting has replaced talking. But in this Google age, are the teens in your life smarter or worse for the wear?
I love technology, so please don't think I'm bashing technology. I just think many teens are too smart (literally), for their own good. Parents can't keep up, and many don't bother trying. In the mean time we are losing a generation of young people to the devil's many snares.
They are losing their virginity at alarming rates. The generations before are successfully teaching our young women to set their standards low and keep them there. They have heard the message loud and clear. It's time for us to do better.
We are to be an example. We need to stop settling, and stop lying to ourselves and anyone else who is fool enough to listen. We need to be real friends to each other and lovingly call our girls out when we see them slipping in patterns of stupidity. You've been challenged, and called out. Now what are you gonna do about it?
It was an ordinary evening. My husband and I were preparing to go to bed, but decided to check in on Facebook before doing so. Big mistake.
We eavesdropped on a young woman having a vicious cyber-argument with another. It was very colorful and would probably get her convicted in a court of law.
Another night I was awake for a late night feeding and saw someone venting about her lying, cheating boyfriend.
Still another posted photographs of herself scantily clad at underage drinking parties.
I've seen break-ups and make-ups, all played out on Facebook (or Twitter).
While we all do stupid things, most of us like to keep those things private. I have no desire to publish every stupid thought I have or broadcast arguments for all to see.
In this digital age, what you post is permanent. Someone can find it. Parents and potential employers alike can see what you're really like.
When I read teenagers pining away for significant others, I usually laugh. Not because their feelings aren't real, but because I remember how I was at that age. I'm glad there are no public records of my fleeting feelings. Old diary entries are painful enough.
When I see grown women discussing drunk driving excursions publicly, I wonder if they're still drunk when they're writing. It would be pretty sad if you're trying to beat a DUI, and the prosecutor has a printout of your own Facebook post to use against you.
Using caution is wise. The problem with social networking sights is that many people type first and think later. What I feel right now is bound to change. And while I may later delete the post, someone has already seen it. I would caution girls to hold off writing about your argument with your man. What if he sees it or hears about it and you're still together? Hold off posting pics of the wild weekend party you attended if your coworkers could be your Facebook friend. Refrain from using profanity if your aunt and dad also see your posts and don't realize that your language is reprehensible.
In God's Word, Job 28:18 teaches us that the price of wisdom is beyond rubies. As a woman, I often talk first and think later. I'm sure Tre will attest to that. As a writer, I must be conscious of what I put out there for others to see. So while we enjoy our social networking, we must be wise to protect our dignity and our future.
There is a process know as PGD, or Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis. It has been around for almost twenty years now, according to Wikipedia. The idea is that a couple undergoing IVF is able to "choose" which sex a child is before implantation. Since I am a scientist, I have always found this process fascinating, but I've always had concerns about the uses of this technology.
In my work, I often see the amnios of women who've undergone fertility treatments. The result is often multiples, and they frequently want genetic testing to search for sex and any abnormalities. If a child is the wrong sex, or has a genetic defect, they are often aborted. PGD will enable a couple to learn of these things before implantation occurs. Therefore producing a custom pregnancy, so to speak. In the news, two clinics are boasting of there abilities to provide "designer" babies. You can now choose eye color, hair color and even height and intellect! The ethical implications are terrifying and unconscionable. Technology is a blessing that God gave us. In the wrong hands, this will be disastrous. Creation is God's alone. When doctors and parents play God, the results will be catastrophic.
As all of you know, I am a voracious reader. What some of you may wonder is how I have time to read so much with a full-time job, husband and two small children. I'll tell you a little secret. Audiobooks!
Several months ago, I purchased a Creative Zen mp3 player. I purchased one with 2GB (although they sell the same model with much more memory), and I've never filled it up. I sometimes have 10 books at a time. It also holds a memory card. It comes in pink and black. It has an FM radio and still plays music, of course. With so many choices, it was hard for me to choose.Many libraries offer online book services. With a library card, you can check out, download and transfer books from the comfort and convenience of your computer. I simply checked the library's site for compatible devices. One thing you need is compatibility with the file format, for example is it an MP3 or a WMA? You must also have the bookmarking capability. Unless you enjoy trying to remember where you were and fast-forwarding every time.
I am fortunate enough to listen to books all day at work. I can connect the Zen to an adapter and even listen in the car. Road trips are more interesting. The work day flies by. I can enter into my own zone and go anywhere the book takes me. I'm so much more content because of it. It truly has been a great blessing to me. Proof that God cares about the little stuff.
So if you love to read, but lack the time, check your local library and see if your mp3 player is compatible. If not, buying a new one is worth it's weight in gold. It's the best $80 I've spent in a long time. It also paid for itself after 2 downloads. Purchasing audiobooks is very expensive. Borrowing them from the library is free. Happy "reading"!
My new friend Ruby helps keep me organized. She helps me keep track of appointments and kids' schedules. She provides entertainment for hours. She has even helped me to make time for communicating with loved ones who are in other locations! She takes amazing pictures. If I get lost, she's very good with directions. She's even helped me to spice up my love life and get closer to God. She sounds perfect, right?
Well, you too can have a friend like Ruby. Ruby is my new phone. A Blackberry Pearl smartphone to be exact. Recently my old phone was damaged and I had to replace it. I left it up to hubby to do so. He decided it was time for me to step into the technology age. I disagreed. But now I'm in love. This phone truly is like my right arm. It does more things than I can imagine. It does everything I listed and more. It fits in the palm of your hand and provides so much at your fingertips. If you're in the market for something to help you stay connected on the go, I highly recommend Ruby. Of course, that name is already taken. Sorry. :(
